Baghdad: National Security Advisor Qassem Al-Aboudi led a high-level meeting on Monday to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change on national security and internal displacement in Iraq. The meeting saw active participation from several key stakeholders, including ministries, relevant committees of the House of Representatives, governorates, the Supreme Judicial Council, the European Union Advisory Mission in Iraq, and other institutions. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions during the meeting focused on the multifaceted impact of climate change on national security and internal displacement. The participants explored the challenges associated with this issue, potential response strategies, and the inherent risks. Additionally, they examined the situation of internal displacement through constitutional, legal, and security lenses, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts by governorates to address the societal impact and formulating necessary recommendations. Dur ing his opening remarks, Al-Aboudi emphasized that previous government policies have intensified the migration of citizens from rural areas to urban centers due to economic reasons. He suggested that the establishment of significant economic projects in governorates and the provision of viable living opportunities could mitigate this urban migration trend. Al-Aboudi further noted that the importation of agricultural products has adversely affected provinces reliant on agriculture, compelling residents to seek employment in cities. He highlighted the substantial population growth in Iraq, which is not matched by a diversification of the country's resources. He pointed out that the southern and central governorates are particularly vulnerable to these challenges. In conclusion, Al-Aboudi underscored the need for a scientific and realistic approach to addressing climate change and internal displacement issues. He commended the efforts of relevant authorities working on these challenges and expressed the Nation al Security Advisory's readiness to collaborate, offer studies and research, and share ideas with concerned authorities to develop practical solutions for overcoming these obstacles.